Calibration assistance

ABSTRACT

Example techniques relate to calibration interfaces that facilitate calibration of a playback device. An example implementation may involve outputting a sequence of prompts to guide calibration of a playback device during a calibration sequence comprising (i) a spatial calibration component and (ii) a spectral calibration component. Outputting the sequence of prompts includes outputting one or more first audio prompts representing a guide to perform the spatial calibration component of the calibration sequence. The spatial calibration component involves calibration of the playback device for a particular location within an environment. Outputting the sequence of prompts also includes outputting one or more first second prompts representing a guide to perform the spectral calibration component of the calibration sequence. The spectral calibration component involves calibration of the playback device for the environment.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to, and is acontinuation of, U.S. non-provisional patent application Ser. No.16/530,324, filed on Aug. 2, 2019, entitled “Calibration Interface,”which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

U.S. non-provisional patent application Ser. No. 16/530,324 claimspriority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to, and is a continuation of, U.S.non-provisional patent application Ser. No. 15/217,399, filed on Jul.22, 2016, entitled “Calibration Interface,” and issued as U.S. Pat. No.10,372,406 on Aug. 6, 2019 which is incorporated herein by reference inits entirety.

The present application incorporates herein by reference the entirecontents of (i) U.S. application Ser. No. 14/696,014, filed Apr. 24,2015, titled “Speaker Calibration”; (ii) U.S. application Ser. No.14/826,856, filed Aug. 14, 2015, titled “Playback Device CalibrationUser Interfaces”; (iii) U.S. application Ser. No. 14/826,873, filed Aug.14, 2015, titled “Speaker Calibration User Interface”; (iv) U.S.application Ser. No. 14/805,140, filed Jul. 21, 2015, titled “HybridTest Tone for Space-Averaged Room Audio Calibration Using A MovingMicrophone”; and (v) U.S. application Ser. No. 15/005,853, filed Jan.25, 2016, titled “Calibration with Particular Locations.”

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The disclosure is related to consumer goods and, more particularly, tomethods, systems, products, features, services, and other elementsdirected to media playback or some aspect thereof.

BACKGROUND

Options for accessing and listening to digital audio in an out-loudsetting were limited until in 2003, when SONOS, Inc. filed for one ofits first patent applications, entitled “Method for Synchronizing AudioPlayback between Multiple Networked Devices,” and began offering a mediaplayback system for sale in 2005. The Sonos Wireless HiFi System enablespeople to experience music from many sources via one or more networkedplayback devices. Through a software control application installed on asmartphone, tablet, or computer, one can play what he or she wants inany room that has a networked playback device. Additionally, using thecontroller, for example, different songs can be streamed to each roomwith a playback device, rooms can be grouped together for synchronousplayback, or the same song can be heard in all rooms synchronously.

Given the ever growing interest in digital media, there continues to bea need to develop consumer-accessible technologies to further enhancethe listening experience.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Features, aspects, and advantages of the presently disclosed technologymay be better understood with regard to the following description,appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:

FIG. 1 shows an example media playback system configuration in whichcertain embodiments may be practiced;

FIG. 2 shows a functional block diagram of an example playback device;

FIG. 3 shows a functional block diagram of an example control device;

FIG. 4 shows an example controller interface;

FIG. 5 shows an example flow diagram to facilitate the calibration of aplayback device for a particular location within a given environmentusing a control device;

FIG. 6 shows an example control device;

FIG. 7 shows a control device that is displaying an example controlinterface, according to an example implementation;

FIG. 8 shows a control device that is displaying an example controlinterface, according to an example implementation;

FIG. 9 shows a control device that is displaying another example controlinterface, according to an example implementation;

FIG. 10 shows a control device that is displaying another examplecontrol interface, according to an example implementation;

FIG. 11 shows a control device that is displaying another examplecontrol interface, according to an example implementation;

FIG. 12 shows a control device that is displaying a further examplecontrol interface, according to an example implementation;

FIG. 13 shows a control device that is displaying another examplecontrol interface, according to an example implementation;

FIG. 14 shows a control device that is displaying yet another examplecontrol interface, according to an example implementation;

FIG. 15 shows a control device that is displaying an example controlinterface, according to an example implementation;

FIG. 16 shows a control device that is displaying yet another examplecontrol interface, according to an example implementation;

FIG. 17A shows a control device that is displaying an example controlinterface, according to an example implementation;

FIG. 17B shows a control device that is displaying a further examplecontrol interface, according to an example implementation;

FIG. 17C shows a control device that is displaying a further examplecontrol interface, according to an example implementation;

FIG. 17D shows a control device that is displaying an example controlinterface, according to an example implementation;

FIG. 17E shows a control device that is displaying another examplecontrol interface, according to an example implementation;

FIG. 17F shows a control device that is displaying yet another examplecontrol interface, according to an example implementation;

FIG. 18 shows a control device that is displaying an example controlinterface, according to an example implementation;

FIG. 19 shows a control device that is displaying an example controlinterface, according to an example implementation;

FIG. 20 shows a control device that is displaying another examplecontrol interface, according to an example implementation;

FIG. 21A shows a control device that is displaying yet another examplecontrol interface, according to an example implementation;

FIG. 21B shows a control device that is displaying a further examplecontrol interface, according to an example implementation;

FIG. 22 shows a control device that is displaying an example controlinterface, according to an example implementation;

FIG. 23 shows a control device that is displaying another examplecontrol interface, according to an example implementation; and

FIG. 24 shows a control device that is displaying a further examplecontrol interface, according to an example implementation.

The drawings are for the purpose of illustrating example embodiments,but it is understood that the inventions are not limited to thearrangements and instrumentality shown in the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION I. Overview

Embodiments described herein may involve, inter alia, a control device(e.g., a smartphone or tablet computer) displaying a user interface tofacilitate the calibration of a playback device within a givenenvironment. Some calibration procedures contemplated herein involverecording devices (e.g., control devices) of a media playback systemdetecting sound waves (e.g., one or more calibration sounds) emitted byone or more playback devices of the media playback system. A processingdevice, such as a device that is communicatively coupled to the mediaplayback system, may analyze the detected sound waves to determine oneor more calibrations for the one or more playback devices of the mediaplayback system. Such calibrations may configure the one or moreplayback devices to a given listening area (i.e., the environment inwhich the playback device(s) were positioned while emitting the soundwaves). The control device may display a prompt, or a series of prompts,that direct the user to assist in one or both phases of the calibrationsequence.

In some embodiments contemplated herein, the processing device maydetermine two or more calibrations for the one or more playback devices.Such calibrations may configure the one or more playback devices indifferent ways. In operation, one of the two or more calibrations may beapplied to playback by the one or more playback devices, perhaps fordifferent use cases. Example uses cases might include music playback orsurround sound (i.e., home theater), among others.

Within examples, the calibration sequence may include a spatial and/orspectral calibration component. For instance, the processing device maydetermine a first calibration that configures the one or more playbackdevices to a given listening area spatially (and perhaps alsospectrally). Such a calibration may configure the one or more playbackdevices to one or more particular locations within the environment(e.g., one or more preferred listening positions, such as a favoriteseating location), perhaps by adjusting time-delay and/or loudness forthose particular locations. This first calibration may be applied duringother use cases, such as home theater. The processing device may alsodetermine a second calibration that configures the one or more playbackdevices to a given listening area spectrally. Such a calibration maygenerally help offset acoustic characteristics of the environment and beapplied during certain use cases, such as music playback. U.S.application Ser. No. 15/005,853 entitled, “Calibration with ParticularLocations,” which is hereby incorporated by reference, provides examplesof these calibration techniques.

A control device may display one or more prompts to initiate acalibration sequence for the spatial calibration component and/or thespectral calibration component. The one or more prompts might include aselectable control that, when selected, starts the calibration sequence.Additionally, the one or more prompts might include a selectable controlthat, when selected, defers the calibration sequence to a later time.

In some cases, quality of calibration can be further improved bypreparing the environment for calibration. To prepare the control devicefor calibration, the control device may, for example, provide a promptto perform a step or steps to improve the acoustics of the microphonethat will be detecting the calibration sounds emitted by a playbackdevice. For instance, the control device may prompt to rotate thecontrol device such that its microphone is oriented upwards, as such anorientation may improve the microphone sensitivity or other acousticcharacteristics. As another example, the control device may prompt toremove any removable cases or covers that have been installed on thecontrol devices. Cases or covers may negatively influence themicrophones ability to sense sounds, as they may physically block orattenuate sound before the sound reaches the microphone. Withinexamples, the control device may prompt to perform other steps as well.

To further prepare the control device for calibration, in some cases,the control device may display one or more prompts to instruct a user tolocate and move to the particular location within the given environmentfor the spatial calibration component of the calibration sequence.Additionally or alternatively, the control device may provide a promptto perform one or more steps to reduce or eliminate environmentaleffects on the calibration. For instance, the control device may promptto reduce ambient noise within an environment. Since the calibrationinvolves the control device detecting calibration sounds emitted by theplayback device, ambient noise may negatively influence the calibrationprocedure by affecting a microphone's ability to detect the calibrationsounds.

As noted above, the control device may display one or more prompts thatinclude a selectable control that, when selected, initiates thecalibration sequence. As part of the spatial calibration component ofthe calibration sequence, some examples may include the control deviceinstructing a playback device to begin emitting one or more calibrationsounds or tones, which the control device may detect via one or moremicrophones. Within examples, a playback device with multiple speakersor transducers may emit different calibration sounds or tones (e.g.,sounds at different frequency ranges or phases) via each speaker ortransducer. For instance, a tweeter may output relatively high-frequencycalibration audio while a subwoofer emits relatively low frequencycalibration audio. In some cases, each speaker or transducer may emitthe calibration sounds simultaneously. In other cases, the speakers ortransducers may emit the calibration sounds at different times, perhapsin respective intervals.

In further examples, the control device may display a plurality ofcircular graphical elements that pulse in synchrony with the one or moreof calibration tones played by the playback device during the spatialcalibration component. In some instances, the plurality of circulargraphical elements may move along an axis and/or shift positions. Suchmovement may be indicative of a location of the playback device relativeto the particular location within the given environment.

Some calibration procedures within the spectral calibration componentmay be improved by the control device detecting the calibration soundsat multiple physical locations within the environment. Acoustics of anenvironment may vary from location to location within the environment.Detecting the calibration sounds at multiple physical locations withinthe environment may provide a better understanding of the environment asa whole. To facilitate detecting the calibration sounds at multiplephysical locations, the control device may provide a prompt to perform amovement during the calibration procedure. The movement may involve theuser carrying the control device around the room while the one or moreplayback devices under calibration emits calibration sounds. In thismanner, the control device may detect the calibration sounds at multiplephysical locations within the environment.

As indicated above, example techniques may involve using a controldevice to facilitate the calibration of a playback device for aparticular location within a given environment. In one aspect, a methodis provided. The method may involve displaying (i) a prompt to initiatea calibration sequence that includes a spectral calibration componentand a spatial calibration component, and (ii) a sequence of one or moreprompts to prepare the particular location within the given environmentfor the spatial calibration component. The spectral calibrationcomponent may involve calibration of a playback device for a givenenvironment in which the playback device is located, and the spatialcalibration component may involve calibration of the playback device fora particular location within the given environment. The method may alsoinvolve displaying a selectable control, that, when selected, initiatesspatial calibration of the playback device within the particularlocation of the given environment. The method may also involve causingthe spatial calibration component to be initiated.

In another aspect, a device is provided. The device includes a networkinterface, at least one processor, a data storage, and program logicstored in the data storage and executable by the at least one processorto perform operations. The operations may include displaying (i) aprompt to initiate a calibration sequence that includes a spectralcalibration component and a spatial calibration component, and (ii) asequence of one or more prompts to prepare the particular locationwithin the given environment for the spatial calibration component. Theoperations may also include displaying a selectable control, that, whenselected, initiates spatial calibration of the playback device withinthe particular location of the given environment. The operations mayalso involve causing the spatial calibration component to be initiated.

In yet another aspect, a non-transitory computer readable memory isprovided. The non-transitory computer readable memory has stored thereoninstructions executable by a computing device to cause the computingdevice to perform operations. The operations may include displaying (i)a prompt to initiate a calibration sequence that includes a spectralcalibration component and a spatial calibration component, and (ii) asequence of one or more prompts to prepare the particular locationwithin the given environment for the spatial calibration component. Theoperations may also include displaying a selectable control, that, whenselected, initiates spatial calibration of the playback device withinthe particular location of the given environment. The operations mayalso involve causing the spatial calibration component to be initiated.

It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that thisdisclosure includes numerous other embodiments. While some examplesdescribed herein may refer to functions performed by given actors suchas “users” and/or other entities, it should be understood that thisdescription is for purposes of explanation only. The claims should notbe interpreted to require action by any such example actor unlessexplicitly required by the language of the claims themselves.

II. Example Operating Environment

FIG. 1 illustrates an example configuration of a media playback system100 in which one or more embodiments disclosed herein may be practicedor implemented. The media playback system 100 as shown is associatedwith an example home environment having several rooms and spaces, suchas for example, a master bedroom, an office, a dining room, and a livingroom. As shown in the example of FIG. 1, the media playback system 100includes playback devices 102-124, control devices 126 and 128, and awired or wireless network router 130.

Further discussions relating to the different components of the examplemedia playback system 100 and how the different components may interactto provide a user with a media experience may be found in the followingsections. While discussions herein may generally refer to the examplemedia playback system 100, technologies described herein are not limitedto applications within, among other things, the home environment asshown in FIG. 1. For instance, the technologies described herein may beuseful in environments where multi-zone audio may be desired, such as,for example, a commercial setting like a restaurant, mall or airport, avehicle like a sports utility vehicle (SUV), bus or car, a ship or boat,an airplane, and so on.

a. Example Playback Devices

FIG. 2 shows a functional block diagram of an example playback device200 that may be configured to be one or more of the playback devices102-124 of the media playback system 100 of FIG. 1. The playback device200 may include a processor 202, software components 204, memory 206,audio processing components 208, audio amplifier(s) 210, speaker(s) 212,and a network interface 214 including wireless interface(s) 216 andwired interface(s) 218. In one case, the playback device 200 may notinclude the speaker(s) 212, but rather a speaker interface forconnecting the playback device 200 to external speakers. In anothercase, the playback device 200 may include neither the speaker(s) 212 northe audio amplifier(s) 210, but rather an audio interface for connectingthe playback device 200 to an external audio amplifier or audio-visualreceiver.

In one example, the processor 202 may be a clock-driven computingcomponent configured to process input data according to instructionsstored in the memory 206. The memory 206 may be a tangiblecomputer-readable medium configured to store instructions executable bythe processor 202. For instance, the memory 206 may be data storage thatcan be loaded with one or more of the software components 204 executableby the processor 202 to achieve certain functions. In one example, thefunctions may involve the playback device 200 retrieving audio data froman audio source or another playback device. In another example, thefunctions may involve the playback device 200 sending audio data toanother device or playback device on a network. In yet another example,the functions may involve pairing of the playback device 200 with one ormore playback devices to create a multi-channel audio environment.

Certain functions may involve the playback device 200 synchronizingplayback of audio content with one or more other playback devices.During synchronous playback, a listener will preferably not be able toperceive time-delay differences between playback of the audio content bythe playback device 200 and the one or more other playback devices. U.S.Pat. No. 8,234,395 entitled, “System and method for synchronizingoperations among a plurality of independently clocked digital dataprocessing devices,” which is hereby incorporated by reference, providesin more detail some examples for audio playback synchronization amongplayback devices.

The memory 206 may further be configured to store data associated withthe playback device 200, such as one or more zones and/or zone groupsthe playback device 200 is a part of, audio sources accessible by theplayback device 200, or a playback queue that the playback device 200(or some other playback device) may be associated with. The data may bestored as one or more state variables that are periodically updated andused to describe the state of the playback device 200. The memory 206may also include the data associated with the state of the other devicesof the media system, and shared from time to time among the devices sothat one or more of the devices have the most recent data associatedwith the system. Other embodiments are also possible.

The audio processing components 208 may include one or moredigital-to-analog converters (DAC), an audio preprocessing component, anaudio enhancement component or a digital signal processor (DSP), and soon. In one embodiment, one or more of the audio processing components208 may be a subcomponent of the processor 202. In one example, audiocontent may be processed and/or intentionally altered by the audioprocessing components 208 to produce audio signals. The produced audiosignals may then be provided to the audio amplifier(s) 210 foramplification and playback through speaker(s) 212. Particularly, theaudio amplifier(s) 210 may include devices configured to amplify audiosignals to a level for driving one or more of the speakers 212. Thespeaker(s) 212 may include an individual transducer (e.g., a “driver”)or a complete speaker system involving an enclosure with one or moredrivers. A particular driver of the speaker(s) 212 may include, forexample, a subwoofer (e.g., for low frequencies), a mid-range driver(e.g., for middle frequencies), and/or a tweeter (e.g., for highfrequencies). In some cases, each transducer in the one or more speakers212 may be driven by an individual corresponding audio amplifier of theaudio amplifier(s) 210. In addition to producing analog signals forplayback by the playback device 200, the audio processing components 208may be configured to process audio content to be sent to one or moreother playback devices for playback.

Audio content to be processed and/or played back by the playback device200 may be received from an external source, such as via an audioline-in input connection (e.g., an auto-detecting 3.5 mm audio line-inconnection) or the network interface 214.

The network interface 214 may be configured to facilitate a data flowbetween the playback device 200 and one or more other devices on a datanetwork. As such, the playback device 200 may be configured to receiveaudio content over the data network from one or more other playbackdevices in communication with the playback device 200, network deviceswithin a local area network, or audio content sources over a wide areanetwork such as the Internet. In one example, the audio content andother signals transmitted and received by the playback device 200 may betransmitted in the form of digital packet data containing an InternetProtocol (IP)-based source address and IP-based destination addresses.In such a case, the network interface 214 may be configured to parse thedigital packet data such that the data destined for the playback device200 is properly received and processed by the playback device 200.

As shown, the network interface 214 may include wireless interface(s)216 and wired interface(s) 218. The wireless interface(s) 216 mayprovide network interface functions for the playback device 200 towirelessly communicate with other devices (e.g., other playbackdevice(s), speaker(s), receiver(s), network device(s), control device(s)within a data network the playback device 200 is associated with) inaccordance with a communication protocol (e.g., any wireless standardincluding IEEE 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11ac, 802.15, 4Gmobile communication standard, and so on). The wired interface(s) 218may provide network interface functions for the playback device 200 tocommunicate over a wired connection with other devices in accordancewith a communication protocol (e.g., IEEE 802.3). While the networkinterface 214 shown in FIG. 2 includes both wireless interface(s) 216and wired interface(s) 218, the network interface 214 may in someembodiments include only wireless interface(s) or only wiredinterface(s).

In one example, the playback device 200 and one other playback devicemay be paired to play two separate audio components of audio content.For instance, playback device 200 may be configured to play a leftchannel audio component, while the other playback device may beconfigured to play a right channel audio component, thereby producing orenhancing a stereo effect of the audio content. The paired playbackdevices (also referred to as “bonded playback devices”) may further playaudio content in synchrony with other playback devices.

In another example, the playback device 200 may be sonicallyconsolidated with one or more other playback devices to form a single,consolidated playback device. A consolidated playback device may beconfigured to process and reproduce sound differently than anunconsolidated playback device or playback devices that are paired,because a consolidated playback device may have additional speakerdrivers through which audio content may be rendered. For instance, ifthe playback device 200 is a playback device designed to render lowfrequency range audio content (i.e. a subwoofer), the playback device200 may be consolidated with a playback device designed to render fullfrequency range audio content. In such a case, the full frequency rangeplayback device, when consolidated with the low frequency playbackdevice 200, may be configured to render only the mid and high frequencycomponents of audio content, while the low frequency range playbackdevice 200 renders the low frequency component of the audio content. Theconsolidated playback device may further be paired with a singleplayback device or yet another consolidated playback device.

By way of illustration, SONOS, Inc. presently offers (or has offered)for sale certain playback devices including a “PLAY:1,” “PLAY:3,”“PLAY:5,” “PLAYBAR,” “CONNECT:AMP,” “CONNECT,” and “SUB.” Any otherpast, present, and/or future playback devices may additionally oralternatively be used to implement the playback devices of exampleembodiments disclosed herein. Additionally, it is understood that aplayback device is not limited to the example illustrated in FIG. 2 orto the SONOS product offerings. For example, a playback device mayinclude a wired or wireless headphone. In another example, a playbackdevice may include or interact with a docking station for personalmobile media playback devices. In yet another example, a playback devicemay be integral to another device or component such as a television, alighting fixture, or some other device for indoor or outdoor use.

b. Example Playback Zone Configurations

Referring back to the media playback system 100 of FIG. 1, theenvironment may have one or more playback zones, each with one or moreplayback devices. The media playback system 100 may be established withone or more playback zones, after which one or more zones may be added,or removed to arrive at the example configuration shown in FIG. 1. Eachzone may be given a name according to a different room or space such asan office, bathroom, master bedroom, bedroom, kitchen, dining room,living room, and/or balcony. In one case, a single playback zone mayinclude multiple rooms or spaces. In another case, a single room orspace may include multiple playback zones.

As shown in FIG. 1, the balcony, dining room, kitchen, bathroom, office,and bedroom zones each have one playback device, while the living roomand master bedroom zones each have multiple playback devices. In theliving room zone, playback devices 104, 106, 108, and 110 may beconfigured to play audio content in synchrony as individual playbackdevices, as one or more bonded playback devices, as one or moreconsolidated playback devices, or any combination thereof. Similarly, inthe case of the master bedroom, playback devices 122 and 124 may beconfigured to play audio content in synchrony as individual playbackdevices, as a bonded playback device, or as a consolidated playbackdevice.

In one example, one or more playback zones in the environment of FIG. 1may each be playing different audio content. For instance, the user maybe grilling in the balcony zone and listening to hip hop music beingplayed by the playback device 102 while another user may be preparingfood in the kitchen zone and listening to classical music being playedby the playback device 114. In another example, a playback zone may playthe same audio content in synchrony with another playback zone. Forinstance, the user may be in the office zone where the playback device118 is playing the same rock music that is being playing by playbackdevice 102 in the balcony zone. In such a case, playback devices 102 and118 may be playing the rock music in synchrony such that the user mayseamlessly (or at least substantially seamlessly) enjoy the audiocontent that is being played out-loud while moving between differentplayback zones. Synchronization among playback zones may be achieved ina manner similar to that of synchronization among playback devices, asdescribed in previously referenced U.S. Pat. No. 8,234,395.

As suggested above, the zone configurations of the media playback system100 may be dynamically modified, and in some embodiments, the mediaplayback system 100 supports numerous configurations. For instance, if auser physically moves one or more playback devices to or from a zone,the media playback system 100 may be reconfigured to accommodate thechange(s). For instance, if the user physically moves the playbackdevice 102 from the balcony zone to the office zone, the office zone maynow include both the playback device 118 and the playback device 102.The playback device 102 may be paired or grouped with the office zoneand/or renamed if so desired via a control device such as the controldevices 126 and 128. On the other hand, if the one or more playbackdevices are moved to a particular area in the home environment that isnot already a playback zone, a new playback zone may be created for theparticular area.

Further, different playback zones of the media playback system 100 maybe dynamically combined into zone groups or split up into individualplayback zones. For instance, the dining room zone and the kitchen zone114 may be combined into a zone group for a dinner party such thatplayback devices 112 and 114 may render audio content in synchrony. Onthe other hand, the living room zone may be split into a television zoneincluding playback device 104, and a listening zone including playbackdevices 106, 108, and 110, if the user wishes to listen to music in theliving room space while another user wishes to watch television.

c. Example Control Devices

FIG. 3 shows a functional block diagram of an example control device 300that may be configured to be one or both of the control devices 126 and128 of the media playback system 100. Control device 300 may also bereferred to as a controller 300. As shown, the control device 300 mayinclude a processor 302, memory 304, a network interface 306, and a userinterface 308. In one example, the control device 300 may be a dedicatedcontroller for the media playback system 100. In another example, thecontrol device 300 may be a network device on which media playbacksystem controller application software may be installed, such as forexample, an iPhone™, iPad™ or any other smart phone, tablet or networkdevice (e.g., a networked computer such as a PC or Mac™).

The processor 302 may be configured to perform functions relevant tofacilitating user access, control, and configuration of the mediaplayback system 100. The memory 304 may be configured to storeinstructions executable by the processor 302 to perform those functions.The memory 304 may also be configured to store the media playback systemcontroller application software and other data associated with the mediaplayback system 100 and the user.

In one example, the network interface 306 may be based on an industrystandard (e.g., infrared, radio, wired standards including IEEE 802.3,wireless standards including IEEE 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n,802.11ac, 802.15, 4G mobile communication standard, and so on). Thenetwork interface 306 may provide a means for the control device 300 tocommunicate with other devices in the media playback system 100. In oneexample, data and information (e.g., such as a state variable) may becommunicated between control device 300 and other devices via thenetwork interface 306. For instance, playback zone and zone groupconfigurations in the media playback system 100 may be received by thecontrol device 300 from a playback device or another network device, ortransmitted by the control device 300 to another playback device ornetwork device via the network interface 306. In some cases, the othernetwork device may be another control device.

Playback device control commands such as volume control and audioplayback control may also be communicated from the control device 300 toa playback device via the network interface 306. As suggested above,changes to configurations of the media playback system 100 may also beperformed by a user using the control device 300. The configurationchanges may include adding/removing one or more playback devices to/froma zone, adding/removing one or more zones to/from a zone group, forminga bonded or consolidated player, separating one or more playback devicesfrom a bonded or consolidated player, among others. Accordingly, thecontrol device 300 may sometimes be referred to as a controller, whetherthe control device 300 is a dedicated controller or a network device onwhich media playback system controller application software isinstalled.

The user interface 308 of the control device 300 may be configured tofacilitate user access and control of the media playback system 100, byproviding a controller interface such as the controller interface 400shown in FIG. 4. The controller interface 400 includes a playbackcontrol region 410, a playback zone region 420, a playback status region430, a playback queue region 440, and an audio content sources region450. The user interface 400 as shown is just one example of a userinterface that may be provided on a network device such as the controldevice 300 of FIG. 3 (and/or the control devices 126 and 128 of FIG. 1)and accessed by users to control a media playback system such as themedia playback system 100. Other user interfaces of varying formats,styles, and interactive sequences may alternatively be implemented onone or more network devices to provide comparable control access to amedia playback system.

The playback control region 410 may include selectable (e.g., by way oftouch or by using a cursor) icons to cause playback devices in aselected playback zone or zone group to play or pause, fast forward,rewind, skip to next, skip to previous, enter/exit shuffle mode,enter/exit repeat mode, enter/exit cross fade mode. The playback controlregion 410 may also include selectable icons to modify equalizationsettings, and playback volume, among other possibilities.

The playback zone region 420 may include representations of playbackzones within the media playback system 100. In some embodiments, thegraphical representations of playback zones may be selectable to bringup additional selectable icons to manage or configure the playback zonesin the media playback system, such as a creation of bonded zones,creation of zone groups, separation of zone groups, and renaming of zonegroups, among other possibilities.

For example, as shown, a “group” icon may be provided within each of thegraphical representations of playback zones. The “group” icon providedwithin a graphical representation of a particular zone may be selectableto bring up options to select one or more other zones in the mediaplayback system to be grouped with the particular zone. Once grouped,playback devices in the zones that have been grouped with the particularzone will be configured to play audio content in synchrony with theplayback device(s) in the particular zone. Analogously, a “group” iconmay be provided within a graphical representation of a zone group. Inthis case, the “group” icon may be selectable to bring up options todeselect one or more zones in the zone group to be removed from the zonegroup. Other interactions and implementations for grouping andungrouping zones via a user interface such as the user interface 400 arealso possible. The representations of playback zones in the playbackzone region 420 may be dynamically updated as playback zone or zonegroup configurations are modified.

The playback status region 430 may include graphical representations ofaudio content that is presently being played, previously played, orscheduled to play next in the selected playback zone or zone group. Theselected playback zone or zone group may be visually distinguished onthe user interface, such as within the playback zone region 420 and/orthe playback status region 430. The graphical representations mayinclude track title, artist name, album name, album year, track length,and other relevant information that may be useful for the user to knowwhen controlling the media playback system via the user interface 400.

The playback queue region 440 may include graphical representations ofaudio content in a playback queue associated with the selected playbackzone or zone group. In some embodiments, each playback zone or zonegroup may be associated with a playback queue containing informationcorresponding to zero or more audio items for playback by the playbackzone or zone group. For instance, each audio item in the playback queuemay comprise a uniform resource identifier (URI), a uniform resourcelocator (URL) or some other identifier that may be used by a playbackdevice in the playback zone or zone group to find and/or retrieve theaudio item from a local audio content source or a networked audiocontent source, possibly for playback by the playback device.

In one example, a playlist may be added to a playback queue, in whichcase information corresponding to each audio item in the playlist may beadded to the playback queue. In another example, audio items in aplayback queue may be saved as a playlist. In a further example, aplayback queue may be empty, or populated but “not in use” when theplayback zone or zone group is playing continuously streaming audiocontent, such as Internet radio that may continue to play untilotherwise stopped, rather than discrete audio items that have playbackdurations. In an alternative embodiment, a playback queue can includeInternet radio and/or other streaming audio content items and be “inuse” when the playback zone or zone group is playing those items. Otherexamples are also possible.

When playback zones or zone groups are “grouped” or “ungrouped,”playback queues associated with the affected playback zones or zonegroups may be cleared or re-associated. For example, if a first playbackzone including a first playback queue is grouped with a second playbackzone including a second playback queue, the established zone group mayhave an associated playback queue that is initially empty, that containsaudio items from the first playback queue (such as if the secondplayback zone was added to the first playback zone), that contains audioitems from the second playback queue (such as if the first playback zonewas added to the second playback zone), or a combination of audio itemsfrom both the first and second playback queues. Subsequently, if theestablished zone group is ungrouped, the resulting first playback zonemay be re-associated with the previous first playback queue, or beassociated with a new playback queue that is empty or contains audioitems from the playback queue associated with the established zone groupbefore the established zone group was ungrouped. Similarly, theresulting second playback zone may be re-associated with the previoussecond playback queue, or be associated with a new playback queue thatis empty, or contains audio items from the playback queue associatedwith the established zone group before the established zone group wasungrouped. Other examples are also possible.

Referring back to the user interface 400 of FIG. 4, the graphicalrepresentations of audio content in the playback queue region 440 mayinclude track titles, artist names, track lengths, and other relevantinformation associated with the audio content in the playback queue. Inone example, graphical representations of audio content may beselectable to bring up additional selectable icons to manage and/ormanipulate the playback queue and/or audio content represented in theplayback queue. For instance, a represented audio content may be removedfrom the playback queue, moved to a different position within theplayback queue, or selected to be played immediately, or after anycurrently playing audio content, among other possibilities. A playbackqueue associated with a playback zone or zone group may be stored in amemory on one or more playback devices in the playback zone or zonegroup, on a playback device that is not in the playback zone or zonegroup, and/or some other designated device. Playback of such a playbackqueue may involve one or more playback devices playing back media itemsof the queue, perhaps in sequential or random order.

The audio content sources region 450 may include graphicalrepresentations of selectable audio content sources from which audiocontent may be retrieved and played by the selected playback zone orzone group. Discussions pertaining to audio content sources may be foundin the following section.

d. Example Audio Content Sources

As indicated previously, one or more playback devices in a zone or zonegroup may be configured to retrieve for playback audio content (e.g.,according to a corresponding URI or URL for the audio content) from avariety of available audio content sources. In one example, audiocontent may be retrieved by a playback device directly from acorresponding audio content source (e.g., a line-in connection). Inanother example, audio content may be provided to a playback device overa network via one or more other playback devices or network devices.

Example audio content sources may include a memory of one or moreplayback devices in a media playback system such as the media playbacksystem 100 of FIG. 1, local music libraries on one or more networkdevices (such as a control device, a network-enabled personal computer,or a networked-attached storage (NAS), for example), streaming audioservices providing audio content via the Internet (e.g., the cloud), oraudio sources connected to the media playback system via a line-in inputconnection on a playback device or network devise, among otherpossibilities.

In some embodiments, audio content sources may be regularly added orremoved from a media playback system such as the media playback system100 of FIG. 1. In one example, an indexing of audio items may beperformed whenever one or more audio content sources are added, removedor updated. Indexing of audio items may involve scanning foridentifiable audio items in all folders/directory shared over a networkaccessible by playback devices in the media playback system, andgenerating or updating an audio content database containing metadata(e.g., title, artist, album, track length, among others) and otherassociated information, such as a URI or URL for each identifiable audioitem found. Other examples for managing and maintaining audio contentsources may also be possible.

III. Example Techniques to Facilitate Calibration of Playback Devices

As noted above, techniques described herein may facilitate thecalibration of one or more playback devices within a particular locationof a given environment. FIG. 5 illustrates an example implementation 500to use a control device to facilitate calibration of a playback devicewithin a given environment by displaying one or more prompts to preparethe playback device, the environment, and/or the control device.

Implementation 500 shown in FIG. 5 present embodiments that can beimplemented within an operating environment including, for example, themedia playback system 100 of FIG. 1, one or more of the playback device200 of FIG. 2, or one or more of the control device 300 of FIG. 3.Further, operations illustrated by way of example as being performed bya media playback system can be performed by any suitable device, such asa playback device or a control device of a media playback system.Implementation 500 may include one or more operations, functions, oractions as illustrated by one or more of blocks shown in FIG. 5.Although the blocks are illustrated in sequential order, these blocksmay also be performed in parallel, and/or in a different order thanthose described herein. Also, the various blocks may be combined intofewer blocks, divided into additional blocks, and/or removed based uponthe desired implementation.

In addition, for the implementations disclosed herein, the flowchartsshow functionality and operation of one possible implementation ofpresent embodiments. In this regard, each block may represent a module,a segment, or a portion of program code, which includes one or moreinstructions executable by a processor for implementing specific logicalfunctions or steps in the process. The program code may be stored on anytype of computer readable medium, for example, such as a storage deviceincluding a disk or hard drive. The computer readable medium may includenon-transitory computer readable medium, for example, such ascomputer-readable media that stores data for short periods of time likeregister memory, processor cache, and Random Access Memory (RAM). Thecomputer readable medium may also include non-transitory media, such assecondary or persistent long term storage, like read only memory (ROM),optical or magnetic disks, compact-disc read only memory (CD-ROM), forexample. The computer readable media may also be any other volatile ornon-volatile storage systems. The computer readable medium may beconsidered a computer readable storage medium, for example, or atangible storage device. In addition, for the implementations disclosedherein, each block may represent circuitry that is wired to perform thespecific logical functions in the process.

By way of example, the following technique makes reference to acalibration procedure in which a single playback device is calibratedwithin a particular location of a given environment. However, in somecases, multiple playback devices may be calibrated within the particularlocation (or within another location) during a calibration procedure.For instance, an example media playback system may include two or moreplayback devices that are associated with one another, such as by way ofa zone, bonded pair, zone group, or other arrangement. Such arrangementsof multiple speakers may function together in operation, and maylikewise be calibrated together. The calibration procedure and promptsshown by a playback device to facilitate that calibration procedure mayadapt to the specific configuration of the playback devices to becalibrated. For example, an example calibration procedure of two or moreplayback devices may involve multiple playback devices emittingrespective calibration sounds, which may be detected by one or morecontrol devices.

Further, some calibration procedures may involve calibration of multiplechannels, as some playback devices may have multiple channels. Forexample, some example playback devices may include multiple speakers,each arranged as a separate channel. As another example, a soundbar-type playback device may include multiple channels (e.g., left,right, and center channels).

a. Display Prompt(s) to Initiate Calibration Sequence

At block 502, implementation 500 involves displaying one or more promptsto initiate a calibration sequence. As noted above, one of the two ormore calibrations may be applied to one or more playback devices,perhaps for different use cases. Example uses cases might include musicplayback or surround sound (e.g, home theater), among others.

Within examples, the calibration may include a spectral and/or spatialcalibration component. For instance, the processing device may determinea first calibration that configures one or more playback devices to agiven listening area or environment spatially (and perhaps alsospectrally). Such a calibration may configure (i.e. “tune” or“optimize”) the one or more playback devices to one or more particularlocations within the environment (e.g., one or more preferred listeningpositions, such as favorite seating location), perhaps by adjustingtime-delay and/or loudness for those particular locations. This firstcalibration may be applied during other use cases, such as home theater.The processing device may also determine a second calibration thatconfigures the one or more playback devices to a given listening areaspectrally. Such a calibration may generally help offset acousticcharacteristics of the environment and be applied during certain usecases, such as music playback.

In some embodiments, a control device, such as control device 126 ofmedia playback system 100, may display an interface (e.g., controlinterface 400 of FIG. 4), that includes a prompt to initiate acalibration sequence that involves the spectral calibration componentand the spatial calibration component. As noted above, the spectralcalibration component may involve calibration of one or more playbackdevices for a given environment in which the one or more playbackdevices are located. The spatial calibration component may involvecalibration of the one or more playback devices for a particularlocation within the given environment as noted above.

A control device may calibrate a playback device in variouscircumstances. In some cases, a control device may display one or moreprompts during a set-up procedure for a media playback system (e.g., aprocedure to configure one or more playback devices into a mediaplayback system). In other cases, the control device may display one ormore prompts upon detecting input data indicating a request to configurethe media playback system (e.g., a request to configure a media playbacksystem with an additional playback device, or a request to calibrate aparticular playback device in the media playback system).

In further embodiments, the control device may display one or moreprompts when a playback device is moved within an environment in whichit is operating. A playback device may include an accelerometer or othersensor that is sensitive to movement. The playback device may use such asensor to detect when the playback device has been moved. In suchcircumstances, the playback device may transmit a message indicatingthat it has been moved, which may indicate to the control device that anew calibration should be suggested.

FIG. 6 depicts a control device 600 (e.g., a smartphone) that includesone or more processors, a tangible computer-readable memory, a networkinterface, and a display. Control device 600 might be an exampleimplementation of control device 126 or 128 of FIG. 1, or control device300 of FIG. 3, or other control devices described herein. By way ofexample, reference will be made to control device 600 and certaincontrol interfaces, prompts, and other graphical elements that controldevice 600 may display. Within examples, such interfaces and elementsmay be displayed by any suitable control device, such as a smartphone,tablet computer, laptop or desktop computer, personal media player, or aremote control device.

In some embodiments, a control device may display one or more promptsbefore initiating the calibration sequence. The one or more prompts mayindicate why calibration of the playback device is suggested, what thecalibration procedure involves, and what the calibration procedure does.The prompt may further provide a selectable control that, when selected,initiates a calibration sequence. The prompt might also provide anoption to defer the calibration procedure.

FIGS. 7-10 illustrate example control interfaces that may provide one ormore prompts to initiate a calibration sequence for a playback device.In FIG. 7, control device 600 displays an example control interface 700which includes a graphical region 702. As shown, graphical region 702indicates how calibration of one or more playback devices work, what thecalibration sequence involves, how long the calibration sequence isexpected to take, and what the calibration sequence does, among otherpossibilities. Control interface 700 also includes a selectable control704, that when selected, initiates a procedure to calibrate a playbackdevice. Such a procedure may include displaying the one or more promptsto prepare for the calibration. Control interface 700 also includes aselectable control 706 that can be used to decline to initiate thecalibration procedure.

FIG. 8 illustrates an example control interface that provides a promptto prepare the playback devices undergoing calibration for thecalibration procedure. In FIG. 8, control device 600 is displaying anexample control interface 800 that prompt to initiate the calibrationsequence for the playback device. A control device might display controlinterface 800 in addition to or as an alternative to control interface700. Control interface 800 includes a graphical region 802 whichincludes graphical elements indicating that the calibration sequencetunes the playback device at a particular placement or location specificto the playback device. As such, the control interface includes a promptto place the playback device(s) under calibration at the location(s) atwhich they will later be operated. As shown, control interface 800 alsoincludes a selectable control 806, that when selected, displays the nextprompt that may initiate a procedure to calibrate the playback device orfurther prepare for the calibration procedure. Control interface 800also includes a selectable control 808, that when selected, displays theprevious prompt.

In some cases, quality of calibration can be further improved bypreparing the environment for calibration. To prepare an environment forcalibration, a control device may display a prompt to reduce ambientnoise in the environment. By way of example, FIG. 9 includes controlinterface 900. Control device 600 might display control interface 900 inaddition to or as an alternative to control interfaces 700 and/orcontrol interface 800. Control interface 900 includes a graphical region902 which includes graphical elements indicating that the calibrationprocedure tunes the playback device using one or more microphones ofcontrol device 600, and instructions to keep the background noise of theenvironment quiet, among other possibilities. As shown, controlinterface 900 also includes a selectable control 906, that whenselected, displays the next prompt that may initiate a procedure tocalibrate the playback device or further prepare for the calibrationprocedure. Control interface 900 also includes a selectable control 908,that when selected, displays the previous prompt. In some embodiments,the prompt to reduce ambient noise in the environment may be displayedbefore initiating the spatial calibration component of the calibrationsequence. Additionally or alternatively, the prompt to reduce ambientnoise in the environment may be displayed after the spatial calibrationcomponent of the calibration sequence and before initiating the spectralcalibration component of the calibration sequence.

In some embodiments, when the detected background noise level exceeds acalibration threshold during the calibration sequence, control device600 may display a control interface that prompts to reduce ambient noisewithin the environment until the ambient noise level is less than thatcalibration threshold. In some cases, ambient noise may be constantlymonitored throughout the calibration sequence, and the calibrationsequence (e.g., the spatial calibration component and the spectralcalibration component) may be aborted or interrupted if the backgroundnoise level exceeds the calibration threshold. The control device maydetermine whether the level of ambient noise within the environment isbelow the threshold level for calibration. The appropriate ambient noiselevel for calibration may vary by calibration procedure. Sound pressurelevels consistent with a quiet room may be appropriate for some examplecalibration procedures (e.g., sound pressure levels in the range of30-50 dB). To determine the level of ambient noise within theenvironment, a control device may include a microphone. By way of themicrophone, the control device may detect ambient noise within theenvironment and determine whether the detected noise is below athreshold level such that the level is suitable for calibration.

In FIG. 10, control device 600 displays an example control interface1000 that prompts to initiate the calibration sequence for the playbackdevice. A control device might display control interface 1000 inaddition to or as an alternative to control interfaces 700, 800, and/or900. As shown, control interface 1000 includes a graphical region 1002which includes graphical elements indicating that the calibrationprocedure tunes the given environment twice: once for the spatialcalibration component and once for the spectral calibration component.Graphical region 1002 also includes graphical elements indicating whateach calibration does and how the calibration procedure is performed. Inparticular, graphical region 1002 includes graphical elements indicatingthat the spatial calibration component is performed while control device600 is substantially stationary at the particular location and thespectral calibration component is performed while control device 600 isin motion through the given environment.

Control interface 1000 also includes a selectable control 1004, thatwhen selected, displays the next prompt that may initiate a procedure tocalibrate the playback device or further prepare for the calibrationprocedure. Control interface 1000 also includes a selectable control1006, that when selected, displays the previous prompt (e.g., controlinterface 700, 800, and/or 900).

b. Display Prompt(s) to Prepare Location for Spatial Calibration

Referring back to FIG. 5, at block 504, implementation 500 involvesdisplaying a sequence of one or more prompts to prepare the particularlocation within the given environment for the spatial calibrationcomponent. A control device, such as control device 600 of FIG. 6, maydisplay an interface, which includes one or more prompts to preparevarious aspects of the environment, the playback devices undercalibration, and/or control device(s) being used in the calibration,among other aspects of the calibration. Prompts to prepare theenvironment may include prompts to prepare the particular locationwithin the given environment and/or a prompt to prepare the givenenvironment, among other examples.

In FIG. 11, control device 600 displays an example control interface1100 that prompts to prepare the particular location within the givenenvironment for the spatial calibration component. Control device 600might display control interface 1100 in addition to or as an alternativeto control interfaces 700-1000. As shown, control interface 1100includes a graphical region 1102 which includes graphical elements thatprovide indications to locate and move to the particular location withinthe given environment for the spatial calibration component, among otherelements. In particular, graphical region 1102 includes graphicalelements indicating that spatial calibration is performed in astationary position (e.g., a sitting position) at the particularlocation within the given environment. Additionally, graphical region1102 includes graphical elements indicating that the spatial calibrationcomponent balances audio output of the playback device to the particularlocation within the given environment.

Control interface 1100 also includes a selectable control 1104, thatwhen selected, displays the next prompt that may initiate the spatialcalibration component or further prepare the particular location for thespatial calibration component. Control interface 1100 also includes aselectable control 1106, that when selected, displays the previousprompt (e.g., control interfaces 700, 800, 900, and/or 1000).

In some cases, a removable case or cover is installed on the controldevice. Such protection may be installed on control devices such assmartphones and tablets to protect the device from various hazards, suchas drops or spills. However, some types of cases affect microphonereception. For instance, a removable case might fully or partially coverthe microphone, which may attenuate sound before it reaches themicrophone. To prepare an environment for calibration, a control devicemay display a prompt to remove any removable cases or covers from thecontrol device.

To illustrate, in FIG. 12, control device 600 is displaying examplecontrol interface 1200. Control interface 1200 may be displayed beforeor after control interface 1100. In some instances, it may not benecessary to display control interface 1200. Control interface 1200includes a graphical region 1202 which prompts to remove a case fromcontrol device 600 if a case is installed. As shown, graphical region1202 suggests that the phone microphone should be unobstructed. Somecases might not obstruct the microphone of the control device 600sufficiently to prevent it from adequately detecting calibration tonesplayed by the one or more playback devices.

Like several of the other example control interfaces, control interface1200 includes several selectable controls. Selectable control 1204, whenselected, advances the calibration procedure (e.g., by causing thecontrol device to display a prompt to prepare another aspect of themedia playback system or environment for calibration). Further,selectable control 1206, when selected, steps backward in thecalibration procedure.

Some control devices, such as smartphones, have microphones that aremounted towards the bottom of the device, which may position themicrophone nearer to the user's mouth during a phone call. However, whenthe control device is held in a hand during the calibration procedure,such a mounting position might be less than ideal for detecting thecalibration sounds. For instance, in such a position, the hand mightfully or partially obstruct the microphone, which may affect themicrophone detecting calibration sounds emitted by the playback device.In some cases, rotating the control device such that its microphone isoriented upwards may improve the microphone's ability to detect thecalibration sounds, which may improve the calibration quality.

In an attempt to position a control device in such an orientation, acontrol device may display a prompt to rotate the phone. In some cases,such as when a microphone of a control device is mounted near the bottomof the device, the control device may display a prompt to rotate thephone by, for example, 180 degrees about a horizontal axis such that themicrophone is oriented upwards after the rotation. After such arotation, the control device may be upside down relative to its intendedorientation within a hand (e.g., with the microphone towards the top ofthe device, and perhaps with a speaker towards the bottom of thedevice).

By way of example, in FIG. 13, control device 600 displays an examplecontrol interface 1300. Control device 600 might display controlinterface 1300 in addition to or as an alternative to control interfaces700-1200. As shown, control interface 1300 includes a graphical region1302 which includes graphical elements that provide indications torotate control device 600. Control interface 1300 also includes aselectable control 1304, that when selected, displays the previousprompt (e.g., control interfaces 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100 and/or 1200).

In some cases, a device manufacturer may choose to mount a microphone inother positions on the phone. In such cases, rotating the phone mightnot orient the microphone in an improved orientation for detecting thecalibration sounds. Further, such positions may be unpredictable. Toavoid such issues, in some embodiments, the control device may identifythe mounting position of a suitable microphone within the control deviceand display a prompt to rotate the phone based on that mountingposition. For instance, the control device may query a server thatmaintains data (e.g., a database) correlating particular control devicemodels to known mounting positions of the microphone. Such a query mayreturn an indication of the particular mounting position of a microphoneon the control device, which the control device may use to display aprompt for a particular rotation that is based on the mounting position.

Because the control device may be rotated in a hand after the controldevice displays a prompt to rotate the control device, the display ofthe control device may be upside down from the perspective of the user.Such an orientation may interfere with the user interacting with controlinterfaces or other elements shown on the display. To offset therotation, the control device may display a control interface that isrotated relative to the previously displayed control interface(s). Sucha control interface may offset the rotation of the device so as toorient the control interface in an appropriate orientation to view andinteract with the control interface.

To illustrate, in FIG. 14, control device 600 displays example controlinterface 1400. Control device 600 might display control interface 1400in addition to or as an alternative to control interfaces 700-1300. Asshown, control interface 1400 includes a graphical region 1402 whichincludes graphical elements indicating how to hold control device 600for the calibration sequence, among other elements. While controlinterface 1400 may appear upside down on the page from someperspectives, from the perspective of a user holding control device 600as illustrated in graphical region 1402, graphical region 1402 wouldappear right side up. In other words, when control device 600 is heldupside down to improve the position of the microphone, control interface1400 would appear right side up for convenience of a user viewing thegraphical elements in graphical region 1402.

Control interface 1400 also includes a selectable control 1406, thatwhen selected, displays the next prompt that may initiate the spatialcalibration component or further prepare the particular location for thespatial calibration component. Control interface 1400 also includes aselectable control 1404, that when selected, displays the previousprompt (e.g., control interfaces 700-1200 and/or 1300).

Some operating systems may restrict programs from accessing to certainhardware, such as the microphone. Accordingly, in some cases, preparingthe particular location for spatial calibration may involve removingsuch restrictions to grant access to the microphone such that it can beused to detect calibration sounds. The technique for granting access tothe microphone may vary by operating system. Some control devices haveoperating systems that prompt for permission to grant access to themicrophone when the microphone is accessed. Other control devices have asettings menu by which access to the access to the microphone can begranted. To facilitate access to the microphone, the control device maydisplay instructions to grant access to the microphone of the controldevice. Such instructions may vary by device (e.g., by the operatingsystem of the device). Alternative techniques to obtain access to themicrophone are contemplated as well.

In FIG. 15, control interface 1500 includes a graphical region 1502which includes graphical elements providing an indication to adjust theheight of control device 600 while control device 600 is positioned atthe particular location within the given environment during the spatialcalibration component. Adjusting the height of control device 600 mayfurther improve calibration of the particular location. Graphical region1502 also includes graphical elements indicating a particular height(e.g., eye level) of control device 600 for the spatial calibrationcomponent. Graphical region 1502 further includes graphical elementsindicating that adjusting the height of control device 600 facilitatessound balance at the particular location within the given environment.

As shown in FIG. 15, control interface 1500 also includes a selectablecontrol 1506, that when selected, displays the next prompt that mayinitiate the spatial calibration component or further prepare theparticular location for the spatial calibration component. Controlinterface 1500 also includes a selectable control 1504, that whenselected, displays the previous prompt (e.g., control interfaces700-1300 and/or 1400).

c. Initiate Spatial Calibration of Playback Device

Referring back to FIG. 5, at block 506, implementation 500 involvesinitiating spatial calibration of the playback device within theparticular location of the given environment. The spatial calibrationcomponent may be initiated upon detecting selection of a firstselectable control.

To cause the spatial calibration component to be initiated, controldevice 600 may send an instruction that causes the playback device toemit one or more pre-determined calibration sounds. The control devicemay transmit such a command by way of a network interface. Uponreceiving such a command, the playback device may output a series ofcalibration tones. The playback device may listen for such calibrationsounds. Recordings of the calibration sounds emitted by the playbackdevice may be analyzed to determine calibration settings for theenvironment. The calibration sound may be periodic such that therepetitions of the calibration sound continue for a calibrationinterval. During the calibration interval, repetitions of thecalibration sound may be detected at the particular location within thegiven environment.

In some embodiments, different calibration procedures (e.g., spatialcalibration component, spectral calibration component) may use differentcalibration sounds. Additionally or alternatively, different playbackdevices may emit different calibration sounds. In some cases, a playbackdevice with multiple speakers or transducers may emit differentcalibration sounds via each speaker or transducer. In some instances,each speaker or transducer may emit the calibration soundssimultaneously. In other instances, the speakers or transducers may emitthe calibration sounds at different times.

Some calibrations and/or playback devices may use a combination ofdifferent calibration sounds. Within examples, the calibration sound maybe an impulse (like a clap or a spark) or a sine sweep, among otherexamples. The calibration sound may be either audible (i.e. within20-20,000 Hz) or inaudible (e.g., greater than 20,000 Hz). In somecases, the playback device may emit audible music and an inaudiblecalibration sound, which may improve user experience as the user canlisten to the music during the calibration procedure. In someembodiments, a playback device with multiple speakers or transducers mayemit the audible music via one of the speakers and the inaudiblecalibration sound via another speaker. The playback device may emit thecalibration sounds simultaneously or at different times or intervals.

While some example implementations described herein utilize a microphoneof a control device in example calibration procedures, other examplecalibration procedures contemplated herein may involve a microphone thatis not incorporated into the control device. Such a standalonemicrophone might be connected into the control device or the playbackdevice, so as to facilitate recording of the emitted calibration sounds.

As noted above, the spatial calibration component may be initiated upondetecting selection of a first selectable control. Before detectingselection of the first selectable control, a control device, such ascontrol device 600, may display one or more prompts indicating theposition of the control device during the calibration sequence, and whatthe spatial calibration sequence involves, among other possibilities.FIG. 16 illustrates an example control interface 1600 displaying such aprompt.

As shown, control interface 1600 includes a graphical region 1602 whichincludes graphical elements providing an indication to maintain controldevice 600 at a particular position (e.g., eye level) after selection offirst selectable control 1606. Graphical region 1602 also includesgraphical elements indicating that the spatial calibration componentinvolves the playback device playing a series of calibration tones for agiven duration of time upon selection of the first selectable control1606. Upon selecting first selectable control 1606 in control interface1600, control device 600 may initiate spatial calibration. Controlinterface 1600 also includes a selectable control 1604, that whenselected, displays the previous prompt (e.g., control interfaces700-1400 and/or 1500).

Upon detecting selection of the first selectable control 1606, thespatial calibration component may be initiated. While detecting thecalibration tone from a playback device, the control device may displaya control interface indicating that the control device and the playbackdevice are performing the calibration. To illustrate, FIGS. 17A, 17B,17C, 17D, 17E, and 17F include control interfaces which includegraphical regions indicating that the control device 600 is facilitatingthe spatial calibration component, while the playback device plays a oneor more calibration tones. Facilitating the spatial calibrationcomponent may involve the control device 600 detecting the one or morecalibration tones via one or more microphones of the control device 600.

Additionally, FIGS. 17A, 17B, 17C, 17D, 17E, and 17F illustrate examplecontrol interfaces which include graphical regions indicating aplurality of circular graphical elements 1706 that pulse in synchronywith the one or more of calibration tones played by the playback deviceduring the spatial calibration component. Each figure represents aposition of the plurality of circular graphical elements 1706 atdifferent times during the spatial calibration component. The pluralityof circular graphical elements 1706 that pulse in synchrony with thecalibration tones are indicative of a location of the playback devicerelative to the particular location within the given environment. Suchan animation may also indicate that the control device 600 is in processof detecting one or more calibration tones, and graphically inform theuser to continue to maintain the control device 600 at a particularposition, height, and/or orientation.

Within examples, upon selection of first selectable control 1606 in FIG.16, the control device 600 may display control interface 1700A as shownin FIG. 17A. Control interface 1700A includes a graphical region 1702Awhich includes an indication that the control device 600 is in processof detecting and/or listening for one or more calibration tones from aplayback device. Graphical region 1702A also includes an indication thatgraphically prompts the user to continue to maintain position of thecontrol device 600 until control device 600 stops receiving calibrationtones from the playback device. To convey that the control device 600 isstill in process of detecting and/or listening to one or morecalibration tones, the graphical region 1702A includes the plurality ofcircular graphical elements 1706 that pulse in synchrony with the one ormore calibration tones. In some examples, control interface 1700A mayalso include a selectable control (not shown), that when selected,displays a previous prompt or cancels or defers the calibration process.

To illustrate the movement of the plurality of circular graphicalelements 1706, FIG. 17B shows an example control interface 1700B whichincludes a graphical region 1702B. Graphical region 1702B displayssimilar indications as shown in graphical region 1702A. Specially,graphical region 1702B includes the plurality of circular graphicalelements 1706 which have moved closer to each other relative to theplurality of circular graphical elements 1706 displayed in graphicalregion 1702A. As noted above, such movement may be indicative of alocation of the playback device relative to the particular locationwithin the given environment. In some examples, such movement may beindicative of a distance of an emitted calibration tone relative to thelocation of the control device. For instance, the plurality of circularelements 1706 may move closer or further away from each other based onthe distance between a calibration tone (emitted from the playbackdevice) and the control device 600.

To further illustrate the movement of the plurality of circulargraphical elements 1706, FIG. 17C illustrates another example controlinterface 1700C which includes a graphical region 1702C. Graphicalregion 1702C displays similar indications as shown in graphical regions1702A and 1702B. In particular, the plurality of circular elements 1706in graphical region 1702C have moved even closer to each other relativeto the plurality of circular elements 1706 displayed in 1702A and 1702B.

In some instances, as the calibration tone emitted from the playbackdevice continues to travel, the plurality of circular elements 1706 maycontinue to move closer to each other and eventually switch positions.To illustrate, FIG. 17D shows an example control interface 1700D whichincludes a graphical region 1702D. Graphical region 1702D displayssimilar indications as shown in graphical regions 1702A, 1702B, and1702C. As shown, the plurality of circular elements 1706 have switchedpositions. In some examples, such change in position may be indicativeof the control device 600 detecting the calibration tone emitted fromthe playback device and/or waiting for the playback device to emit thenext calibration tone. The plurality of circular elements 1706 may moveaway from each other until the playback device emits the nextcalibration tone. In other examples, such change in position may beindicative of the playback device emitting the next calibration tone.The plurality of circular elements 1706 may move closer or away fromeach other to indicate the location of the next calibration tonerelative to the control device 600 or the particular location within thegiven environment.

To further illustrate the movement of the plurality of circulargraphical elements 1706, FIG. 17E illustrates another example controlinterface 1700E which includes a graphical region 1702E. Graphicalregion 1702E displays similar indications as shown in graphical regions1702A, 1702B, 1702C, and 1702D. In particular, graphical region 1702Eincludes the plurality of circular elements 1706 which have movedfurther away from each other relative to the plurality of circularelements 1706 displayed in graphical region 1702D.

To further illustrate the movement of the plurality of circulargraphical elements 1706, FIG. 17F illustrates yet another examplecontrol interface 1700F which includes a graphical region 1702F.Graphical region 1702F includes the plurality of circular elements 1706which have moved closer to each other relative to the plurality ofcircular elements 1706 displayed in graphical region 1702D and 1702E.The plurality of circular elements 1706 may continue to move and/orswitch positions as shown in control interfaces 1700A, 1700B, 1700C,1700D, 1700E, 1700F until the playback device stops emitting acalibration tone. As noted above, in some cases, ambient noise may beconstantly monitored throughout the calibration sequence, and thecalibration sequence may be aborted or interrupted if the backgroundnoise level exceeds the calibration threshold. In such cases, controldevice 600 may display a control interface that prompts to reduceambient noise within the environment until the ambient noise level isless than that calibration threshold.

Once the spatial calibration component of the calibration sequence iscomplete, control device 600 may display a control interface to notifythe user. In some examples, the plurality of circular elements 1706 maystop moving and/or switching positions. FIG. 18 illustrates anotherexample. As shown, control interface 1800 includes a graphical region1802 which includes graphical elements indicating that the spatialcalibration component of the calibration sequence is complete. Graphicalregion 1802 also includes graphical elements indicating that thespectral calibration component is next in the calibration sequence.Control interface 1800 includes a selectable control 1806, that whenselected, prepares to initiate the spectral calibration component orinitiates the spectral calibration component

d. Spectral Calibration of Playback Device

After completing the spatial calibration component of the calibrationsequence, control device 600 may display one or more prompts to preparethe given environment for spectral calibration of the playback device.As noted above, some calibration procedures involve the control deviceusing a microphone to listen for calibration tones emitted by theplayback device that is being calibrated. Preparing the control devicefor spectral calibration may further involve setting up the conditions,so that the microphone of the control device can detect the calibrationsounds emitted by the playback devices.

In some examples, after the spatial calibration component of thecalibration sequence is complete, control device 600 may display one ormore prompts to adjust an orientation of the control device 600 similarto the prompt in FIG. 13.

In FIG. 19, control device 600 displays another example controlinterface, control interface 1900 which includes graphical regions 1902and 1904. Graphical region 1902 includes a video depicting an example ofhow to move control device 600 within the environment during thespectral calibration component of the calibration sequence. Graphicalregion 1904 prompts to watch the video in graphical region 1902. Controlinterface 1900 also includes selectable control 1906, which stepsbackward in the calibration sequence.

In some embodiments, the control device might require that at least aportion of the video or animation be played back before the calibrationprocedure is advanced. Such a requirement may promote knowledge of howto move the control device during calibration so as to obtain samplesfrom multiple locations within the environment. For example, referringto FIG. 19, control device 600 might require at least 50% (or some otherportion) of the video in graphical region 1902 to be played back beforethe calibration procedure can advance. Once the requisite portion hasbeen played back, control device 600 may activate or display aselectable control (not shown) such that selection of the selectablecontrol causes control device 1906 to advance the spectral calibrationcomponent of the calibration sequence.

In some cases, the control device might not require that the portion ofthe video or animation be played back, as the video or animation hasbeen previously played back (such that a familiarity with movement ofthe control device during calibration has already been established). Forinstance, control device 600 may determine whether the video ingraphical region 1902 has been previously played back. If the video hasnot been previously played back, control device 600 may display aselectable control (not shown) after a threshold portion of the videohas been played back. If the video has been previously played back,control device 600 may display a selectable control (not shown) beforethe threshold portion of the video has been played back.

Among examples, different entities may play back the video, which mayaffect familiarity with the calibration procedure. For example, while ina first iteration of the calibration procedure, a first user may haveviewed the video depicting movement of the control device duringcalibration, a second user who has not viewed the video may be involvedin a second iteration of the calibration procedure and not be familiarwith how to move the control device. In an attempt to avoid suchfamiliarity, determining whether the video in graphical region 1902 hasbeen previously played back may be tied to certain entities. Forinstance, in some cases, control device 600 may determine whether thevideo in graphical region 1902 has been previously played back bycontrol device 600 (as opposed to some other control device, since someexample media playback systems may include multiple control devices(e.g., media playback system 100). Alternatively, a given user accountmay be logged in or active on control device 600 during the calibrationprocedure, and control device 600 may determine whether the video ingraphical region 1902 has been previously played back by that useraccount (as opposed to another user account). In further cases, controldevice 600 may determine whether the video has been previously playedback by a control device of the media playback system that includescontrol device 600 and the playback device under calibration. Otherexamples are possible as well.

FIG. 20 displays another example control interface, control interface2000, which prompts to prepare the given environment for spectralcalibration of the playback device. Control interface 2000 includes agraphical region 2004 that prompts to tap selectable control 2008(Start) when ready. When selected, selectable control 2008 may initiatethe spectral calibration procedure. Control interface 2000 also includesa graphical region 2004 that includes a prompt to move the controldevice 600 within the environment (as may be shown on the video ingraphical region 2002). Additionally, control interface 2000 includesselectable control 2006, which steps backward in the calibrationsequence. As with other control interfaces, the particular combinationof graphical elements and regions may vary by implementation. Forinstance, in some implementations, graphical interface 2000 might notinclude a graphical region 2002 that includes a video.

While the playback device emits a calibration tone, the control device600 may display a control interface. Such a control interface mayinclude an indication that the control device is listening for thepresence of the calibration sound. Such an indication may be displayedwhile the control device attempts to detect or latch onto the emittedcalibration tone. In some examples, a graphical region, such asselectable control 2008, may animate, such as by displaying a swirlingpattern, while the control device 600 attempts to detect the emittedcalibration tone. Such an animation may indicate that the control deviceis in the process of detecting the emitted calibration tone. After thecontrol device detects the presence of the calibration sound, thecontrol device may continue to record the calibration sound using amicrophone.

While detecting the calibration sound, the control device may display acontrol interface indicating that the control device and the playbackdevice are performing the calibration. To illustrate, in FIG. 21A,control device 600 is displaying control interface 2100. Controlinterface 2100 includes a graphical region 2102 indicating that thecalibration (“The Tuning Technique”) is being performed. Controlinterface 2100 also includes a progress indicator 2104 indicating theduration of time remaining in the calibration interval (i.e., how muchlonger the playback device will emit the calibration sound). Such aprogress indicator may also indicate how long to continue to move thecontrol device within the environment. Control interface 2100 furtherincludes a graphical region 2106 that includes a reminder to continuemoving the control device until the calibration sound stops playing. Inaddition, a video in graphical region 2108 may playback so as tocontinue to demonstrate example movement of the control device.

As the calibration sound continues to be emitted by the playback deviceand detected by the control device, the control device may update theprogress indicator to indicate progress through the calibration. Forexample, in FIG. 21B, progress indicator 2104 indicates that thecalibration is partially complete. In some embodiments, a portion of theprogress indicator may pulse in substantial synchrony with periods ofthe calibration sound, so as to provide visual feedback between theprogress indicator and the calibration sound. For instance, in somecases, progress indicator 2110 may pulse or blink in in substantialsynchrony with periods of the calibration sound. In other embodiments, acircular progress indicator, such as progress indicator 2104, may pulsein synchrony with periods of the calibration sound by displaying acircular graphical element that expands in radius from the circularprogress indicator during periods of the calibration sound. Such ananimated circular graphical element may provide the appearance that theentire progress indicator is pulsing in synchrony with periods of thecalibration sound. In the center of progress indicator 2104, selectablecontrol 2112 may cause the control device to interrupt the calibration,such as by pausing or cancelling the process.

While the recordings of the calibration sounds are analyzed to determinethe calibration settings for the playback device, the control device maydisplay an indication of the calibration procedure's status. By way ofexample, in FIG. 22, control device 600 is displaying control interface2200. Control interface 2200 includes a graphical region 2202 whichindicates that the control device is adapting the sound of the playbackdevice. Control interface 2200 also includes a graphical element 2204that animates while the calibration sounds are analyzed.

Additionally or alternatively, as shown in FIG. 23, control device 600may display control interface 2300 to indicate the status of thespectral calibration procedure. Control interface 2300 includes agraphical region 2302 which indicates that the control device isadapting the sound of the playback device. Control interface 2300 alsoincludes a graphical element 2304 that animates while the calibrationsounds are analyzed. As shown, graphical element 2304 includes aplurality of concentric ellipsoids that are contorted from a circularshape. Upon the completing the analysis, control device 600 may displaythe plurality of concentric ellipsoids in the circular shape (i.e., notcontorted, as circles).

After the calibration procedure finishes, the control device may displayan indication of that status. To illustrate, in FIG. 24, control device600 is displaying control interface 2400. Graphical region 2402 ofcontrol interface 2400 indicates that tuning (calibrating) of theplayback device has completed. Graphical region 2402 includes a reminderto perform the calibration procedure again if the calibrated playbackdevice is from the position in which it was calibrated. Graphicalinterface 2400 also includes a selectable control 2404 that, whenselected, finishes the calibration.

In some examples, after the calibration procedure completes, the controldevice display a prompt to rotate the phone by 180 degrees about ahorizontal axis such that the microphone is oriented downwards after therotation. After such a rotation, the control device may be right-side uprelative to its intended orientation within a hand (e.g., with thespeaker towards the top of the device, and with the microphone towardsthe bottom of the device). Subsequent control interfaces may bedisplayed right-side up, rather than inverted, to account for thischange in orientation.

In some embodiments, a control device may determine a degree ofadjustment made by the calibration and display an indication of thisdegree on a control interface. For instance, in some cases, the controldevice may determine whether the determined calibration profile adjustsan equalization of the playback device by more or less than a thresholddegree. Within examples, the threshold may be representative of anaudible difference. Adjustments that exceed the threshold may bediscernible by the average listener, while adjustments that are lessthan the threshold might not be as easily discernible.

In some examples, the control device may display graphical elementsindicating the degree of adjustment. For instance, based on determiningthat the determined calibration profile adjusts the equalization of theplayback device by more than the threshold degree, the control devicemay display one or more graphical elements indicating that thecalibration of the playback device significantly adjusted equalizationof the playback device. In contrast, when the determined calibrationprofile adjusts the equalization of the playback device by less than thethreshold degree, the control device may display one or more graphicalelements indicating that the calibration of the playback device subtletyadjusted equalization of the playback device. For instance, in anexample implementation, a control device may display text stating:“Subtle changes were made to your device, as your playback device waswell-placed.” Other examples are possible as well.

As noted above, implementation 500 may include one or more operations,functions, or actions as illustrated by one or more of blocks shown inFIG. 5. Although the blocks are illustrated in sequential order, theseblocks may also be performed in parallel, and/or in a different orderthan those described herein. Also, the various blocks may be combinedinto fewer blocks, divided into additional blocks, and/or removed basedupon the implementation.

IV. Conclusion

The description above discloses, among other things, various examplesystems, methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacture including,among other components, firmware and/or software executed on hardware.It is understood that such examples are merely illustrative and shouldnot be considered as limiting. For example, it is contemplated that anyor all of the firmware, hardware, and/or software aspects or componentscan be embodied exclusively in hardware, exclusively in software,exclusively in firmware, or in any combination of hardware, software,and/or firmware. Accordingly, the examples provided are not the onlyway(s) to implement such systems, methods, apparatus, and/or articles ofmanufacture. The description above discloses, among other things,various example systems, methods, apparatus, and articles of manufactureincluding, among other components, firmware and/or software executed onhardware. It is understood that such examples are merely illustrativeand should not be considered as limiting. For example, it iscontemplated that any or all of the firmware, hardware, and/or softwareaspects or components can be embodied exclusively in hardware,exclusively in software, exclusively in firmware, or in any combinationof hardware, software, and/or firmware. Accordingly, the examplesprovided are not the only way(s) to implement such systems, methods,apparatus, and/or articles of manufacture.

Additionally, references herein to “embodiment” means that a particularfeature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with theembodiment can be included in at least one example embodiment of aninvention. The appearances of this phrase in various places in thespecification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment,nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of otherembodiments. As such, the embodiments described herein, explicitly andimplicitly understood by one skilled in the art, can be combined withother embodiments.

The specification is presented largely in terms of illustrativeenvironments, systems, procedures, steps, logic blocks, processing, andother symbolic representations that directly or indirectly resemble theoperations of data processing devices coupled to networks. These processdescriptions and representations are typically used by those skilled inthe art to most effectively convey the substance of their work to othersskilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth to provide athorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, it isunderstood to those skilled in the art that certain embodiments of thepresent disclosure can be practiced without certain, specific details.In other instances, well known methods, procedures, components, andcircuitry have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarilyobscuring aspects of the embodiments. Accordingly, the scope of thepresent disclosure is defined by the appended claims rather than theforgoing description of embodiments.

When any of the appended claims are read to cover a purely softwareand/or firmware implementation, at least one of the elements in at leastone example is hereby expressly defined to include a tangible,non-transitory medium such as a memory, DVD, CD, Blu-ray, and so on,storing the software and/or firmware.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A tangible, non-transitorycomputer-readable medium comprising program instructions that areexecutable by at least one processor such that a mobile device isconfigured to: display one or more spatial calibration interfacescomprising a guide to perform a spatial calibration component of acalibration sequence, wherein the spatial calibration component involvescalibration of a sound bar-type playback device for a particularlocation within an environment; display one or more spectral calibrationinterfaces comprising a guide to perform a spectral calibrationcomponent of the calibration sequence, wherein the spectral calibrationcomponent involves calibration of the sound bar-type playback device forthe environment; during the spatial calibration component of thecalibration sequence, record, via one or more microphones, first audiooutput of the sound bar-type playback device while the mobile device isat the particular location; during the spectral calibration component ofthe calibration sequence, record, via the one or more microphones,second audio output of the sound bar-type playback device while themobile device is in motion through the environment; and causedetermination of a calibration for the sound bar-type playback device,the calibration comprising a spatial calibration that is based on therecorded first audio output and a spectral calibration that is based onthe recorded second audio output.
 2. The tangible, non-transitorycomputer-readable medium of claim 1, wherein the sound bar-type playbackdevice is configured in a group with two or more playback devicesconfigured to output surround channels when the sound bar-type playbackdevice is outputting surround sound audio content, and wherein thenon-transitory computer-readable medium comprises program instructionsthat are executable by the at least one processor such that the mobiledevice is configured to: during the spatial calibration component of thecalibration sequence, record, via the one or more microphones, firstaudio output of the two or more playback devices while the mobile deviceis at the particular location; and during the spectral calibrationcomponent of the calibration sequence, record, via the one or moremicrophones, second audio output of the two or more playback deviceswhile the mobile device is in motion through the environment.
 3. Thetangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 2, whereinthe program instructions that are executable by the at least oneprocessor such that the mobile device is configured to causedetermination of the calibration for the sound bar-type playback devicecomprise program instructions that are executable by the at least oneprocessor such that the mobile device is configured to: causedetermination of a particular spatial calibration that offsetsdifferences in propagation delays between (a) the soundbar-type playbackdevice and the particular location and (b) the two or more playbackdevices and the particular location.
 4. The tangible, non-transitorycomputer-readable medium of claim 1, wherein the sound bar-type playbackdevice is configured in a group with a subwoofer-type playback deviceconfigured to output bass frequencies of audio content when the soundbar-type playback device is outputting the audio content, and whereinthe non-transitory computer-readable medium comprises programinstructions that are executable by the at least one processor such thatthe mobile device is configured to: during the spectral calibrationcomponent of the calibration sequence, record, via the one or moremicrophones, audio output of the subwoofer bar-type playback devicewhile the mobile device is in motion through the environment.
 5. Thetangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 1, whereinthe program instructions that are executable by the at least oneprocessor such that the mobile device is configured to causedetermination of the calibration for the sound bar-type playback devicecomprise program instructions that are executable by the at least oneprocessor such that the mobile device is configured to: determine, viathe at least one processor, the spatial calibration based on therecorded first audio output; and determine, via the at least oneprocessor, the spectral calibration based on the recorded second audiooutput.
 6. The tangible, non-transitory computer-readable medium ofclaim 1, wherein the program instructions that are executable by the atleast one processor such that the mobile device is configured to causedetermination of the calibration for the sound bar-type playback devicecomprise program instructions that are executable by the at least oneprocessor such that the mobile device is configured to: cause, via acommunications interface, a computing device to determine the spatialcalibration based on the recorded first audio output; and cause, via thecommunications interface, the computing device to determine the spectralcalibration based on the recorded second audio output.
 7. The tangible,non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 1, wherein the programinstructions that are executable by the at least one processor such thatthe mobile device is configured to display one or more spatialcalibration interfaces comprise program instructions that are executableby the at least one processor such that the mobile device is configuredto: display a particular spatial calibration interface comprising aprompt to maintain positioning of the mobile device at particularlocation the while the mobile device records the first audio output ofthe sound bar-type playback device, wherein the prompt indicates thatthe mobile device is recording the first audio output.
 8. The tangible,non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 1, wherein the programinstructions that are executable by the at least one processor such thatthe mobile device is configured to display one or more spatialcalibration interfaces comprise program instructions that are executableby the at least one processor such that the mobile device is configuredto: display one or more graphical elements indicating that spatialcalibration is performed in a sitting position at the particularlocation within the environment.
 9. The tangible, non-transitorycomputer-readable media of claim 1, wherein the program instructionsthat are executable by the at least one processor such that the mobiledevice is configured to display one or more spectral calibrationinterfaces comprise program instructions that are executable by the atleast one processor such that the mobile device is configured to:display a particular spectral calibration interface comprising (i) aprompt to continue moving the mobile device while the mobile device isrecording the second audio output of the soundbar-type playback deviceand (ii) a progress meter indicating a proportion of the second audiooutput that has been outputted by the soundbar-type playback device. 10.The tangible, non-transitory computer-readable media of claim 1, whereinthe program instructions that are executable by the at least oneprocessor such that the mobile device is configured to display one ormore spectral calibration interfaces comprise program instructions thatare executable by the at least one processor such that the mobile deviceis configured to: display a video depicting a user performing thespectral calibration component; and when the video has been at leastpartially played back, display a selectable control that, when selected,causes the mobile device to advance the spectral calibration component.11. A method comprising: causing a mobile device to display of one ormore spatial calibration interfaces comprising a guide to perform aspatial calibration component of a calibration sequence, wherein thespatial calibration component involves calibration of a sound bar-typeplayback device for a particular location within an environment; causingthe mobile device to display one or more spectral calibration interfacescomprising a guide to perform a spectral calibration component of thecalibration sequence, wherein the spectral calibration componentinvolves calibration of the sound bar-type playback device for theenvironment; during the spatial calibration component of the calibrationsequence, causing the mobile device to record, via one or moremicrophones, first audio output of the sound bar-type playback devicewhile the mobile device is at the particular location; during thespectral calibration component of the calibration sequence, causing themobile device to record, via the one or more microphones, second audiooutput of the sound bar-type playback device while the mobile device isin motion through the environment; and causing determination of acalibration for the sound bar-type playback device, the calibrationcomprising a spatial calibration that is based on the recorded firstaudio output and a spectral calibration that is based on the recordedsecond audio output.
 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the soundbar-type playback device is configured in a group with two or moreplayback devices configured to output surround channels when the soundbar-type playback device is outputting surround sound audio content, andwherein the method further comprises: during the spatial calibrationcomponent of the calibration sequence, causing the mobile device torecord, via the one or more microphones, first audio output of the twoor more playback devices while the mobile device is at the particularlocation; and during the spectral calibration component of thecalibration sequence, causing the mobile device to record, via the oneor more microphones, second audio output of the two or more playbackdevices while the mobile device is in motion through the environment.13. The method of claim 12, wherein causing determination of thecalibration for the sound bar-type playback device comprises: causedetermination of a particular spatial calibration that offsetsdifferences in propagation delays between (a) the soundbar-type playbackdevice and the particular location and (b) the two or more playbackdevices and the particular location.
 14. The method of claim 11, whereinthe sound bar-type playback device is configured in a group with asubwoofer-type playback device configured to output bass frequencies ofaudio content when the sound bar-type playback device is outputting theaudio content, and wherein the method further comprises: during thespectral calibration component of the calibration sequence, causing themobile device to record, via the one or more microphones, audio outputof the subwoofer bar-type playback device while the mobile device is inmotion through the environment.
 15. The method of claim 11, whereincausing determination of the calibration for the sound bar-type playbackdevice comprises: determining, via at least one processor, the spatialcalibration based on the recorded first audio output; and determining,via the at least one processor, the spectral calibration based on therecorded second audio output.
 16. The method of claim 11, whereincausing the mobile device to display the one or more spatial calibrationinterfaces comprises: causing the mobile device to display a particularspatial calibration interface comprising a prompt to maintainpositioning of the mobile device at particular location the while themobile device records the first audio output of the sound bar-typeplayback device, wherein the prompt indicates that the mobile device isrecording the first audio output.
 17. The method of claim 11, whereincausing the mobile device to display the one or more spatial calibrationinterfaces comprises: causing the mobile device to display one or moregraphical elements indicating that spatial calibration is performed in asitting position at the particular location within the environment. 18.The method of claim 11, wherein causing the mobile device to display theone or more spectral calibration interfaces comprises: causing themobile device to display a particular spectral calibration interfacecomprising (i) a prompt to continue moving the mobile device while themobile device is recording the second audio output of the soundbar-typeplayback device and (ii) a progress meter indicating a proportion of thesecond audio output that has been outputted by the soundbar-typeplayback device.
 19. The method of claim 11, wherein causing the mobiledevice to display the one or more spectral calibration interfacescomprises: causing the mobile device to display a video depicting a userperforming the spectral calibration component; and when the video hasbeen at least partially played back, causing the mobile device todisplay a selectable control that, when selected, causes the mobiledevice to advance the spectral calibration component.
 20. A systemcomprising a computing device and a sound-bar type playback device, thesystem comprising: a communications interface; at least one processor;and at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium comprisingprogram instructions that are executable by the at least one processorsuch that the system is configured to: cause a mobile device to displayof one or more spatial calibration interfaces comprising a guide toperform a spatial calibration component of a calibration sequence,wherein the spatial calibration component involves calibration of asound bar-type playback device for a particular location within anenvironment; cause the mobile device to display one or more spectralcalibration interfaces comprising a guide to perform a spectralcalibration component of the calibration sequence, wherein the spectralcalibration component involves calibration of the sound bar-typeplayback device for the environment; during the spatial calibrationcomponent of the calibration sequence, cause the mobile device torecord, via one or more microphones, first audio output of the soundbar-type playback device while the mobile device is at the particularlocation; during the spectral calibration component of the calibrationsequence, cause the mobile device to record, via the one or moremicrophones, second audio output of the sound bar-type playback devicewhile the mobile device is in motion through the environment; and causedetermination of a calibration for the sound bar-type playback device,the calibration comprising a spatial calibration that is based on therecorded first audio output and a spectral calibration that is based onthe recorded second audio output.